For Ryan Buchanan, demonstrating God’s love through humble service is more than a guiding principle, it is the foundation on which he has built his life and career.
“My faith in God is the foundation of my success. I attribute my achievements to the talent and passion I bring to my work, all in the name of glorifying and recognizing God. Without His guidance and support, I am not the man, husband, father, and coworker I am today,” says Buchanan, director of marketing and communications at The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce.
In his role at the Chamber, Buchanan serves as writer and editor of Momentum Magazine; filmmaker, editor, and producer of the Chamber’s video series—All Things Chamber, All Things Members, Ask the Expert, and Electric City Minute; and photographer for the organization. He oversees public relations; leads brand and strategic communications for the Chamber and its 10 divisions; and supervises the marketing and communications internship program.
He also supports government affairs communications, coordinates vendors across the organization, and assists with live technology operations at major events.
Buchanan’s passion for communications began early. As a child, he accompanied his grandmother to work, where she taught him the fundamentals of office management. That early exposure set the stage for a series of opportunities that shaped his skill set and ambition.
As a college freshman, he was hired by the Abington Heights School District as the executive producer of its musical Beauty and the Beast, overseeing fundraising, marketing, communications, and financial responsibilities.
“Every year of college, I gravitated toward jobs and opportunities that would help me get to the next level,” he reflects. His collegiate experience included serving as president of his residence hall, providing campus-wide audio and visual support, working in the university’s marketing and communications, alumni and church relations, and student development departments, and completing three internships. “Each opportunity refined me personally and professionally.”
During this time, he also became co-director of marketing and communications for a teen leadership program hosted by the university. He and his best friend transformed the program’s promotional strategy, reshaping how it reached students, parents, and pastors throughout the eastern United States.
After graduating, Buchanan held positions at Everything Natural, SKM Industries, and Keystone Mission—roles that strengthened his experience in marketing, communications, and fundraising and ultimately prepared him for his work at the Chamber.
He credits several mentors for shaping his journey, including Mel Walker, former vice president at Clarks Summit University, who helped develop his professional abilities from college student to project manager. He also acknowledges Kristine Augustine and Mari Potis of the Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce for challenging and encouraging him as he continues to grow into a seasoned marketing and communications professional.
Family remains central to Buchanan’s story. His wife, Britteny, is his strongest supporter and confidant; his parents and siblings continue to influence the man he has become; and his grandmother, Jean Buchanan, has long been his steadfast fan and champion.
Beyond his work at the Chamber, Buchanan serves as a board member and treasurer for Northeast PA Youth for Christ and frequently assists churches by preaching when needed.
Looking ahead, Buchanan hopes to one day become a college professor of business or marketing. “Although I did not pursue education in college, I recognize the valuable experiences I have gained as an opportunity to invest in the next generation. I want to share the knowledge and insights that my life experiences have imparted to me,” he says.
Buchanan’s path is a testament to faith, perseverance, and a commitment to lifting others up.
Ryan Buchanan
Age: 31
Home: Hamlin
Company: The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce, Scranton
Title: Director of Marketing & Communications